Are we still doing this is an exploration of current mores through an intersectional lens. Areflection of my own evolution. An attempt at unifying points of contact in a messylandscape. Not above reproach.

Unless you are choosing to remain innately tied to spaces that only center privilegedidentities, you are aware that we are currently in the midst of a social and culturaldialogue that is challenging. Which in short-form means folks of various marginalizedidentities asking for more; representation, access, equality, positive life outcomes,safety, justice, and respect. Historically and presently, such requests are met with denial,dismissal, and misplaced claims of piety, as well as engagement and growth.

To look into a comment section or honest roundtable on intersectional feminism [link topage] at this moment is to see something of a mess. And for good reason. People arefinding their voices, many for the first time with self-made platforms that didn’t exist untilthis moment in history. The issues we are sorting are deeply intimate and rife withviolence and trauma. Many of us are also working to do healing work around our owntraumas and internalized oppression. Unlearning, relearning, reconsidering all requiredoing identity work, as well. Often these matters are not just approached from a place of“I would like to know more about this issue” but also, “who am I in relationship to this?”

For an onlooker, none of this is very inviting. However, not one single important civilrights movement has ever been popular, inviting or welcomed by the masses. Many ofthe civil rights leaders of the past who are now revered as visionaries and heroes werein their time regarded criminals, troublemakers, considered enemies of the governmentand had very low public support.

The gift of Dr. Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw’s concept of “intersectional feminism” is thatit creates a new language with which to explore and discuss how various aspects of ouridentities impact our lives. At once. While demanding that white feminism (the centeringof cisgendered, white women’s struggles in activism) does not have any space inliberation work, as oppression (like identity) is multifaceted and inseparable.

But to discredit the movement for lack of harmony is remiss. Every part of this work,even the pieces that feel largely like an “argument,” is important and valuable. Much ofthe language used to stigmatize the work is notably trenched in misogyny, as it is notunnoticed, much of this labor is being done by women and nonbinary folks. Thusunsurprisingly often deemed silly or overreactive regardless of tone, direction orpersonal authority.

I’m actually not interested in, engaged with, supporting or offering respect to leadershipthat isn’t working toward those shifts, however messy that process may be.Great change rarely occurs in ease. Any organization or system not actively seekingnew language, representation and diversity of input (photos don’t count) is becomingobsolete by the moment. We see you. But we are busy learning how to speak and thinkand be with one another in a powerful way right now. The most loving and valuable“argument” I’ve ever been honored to be a part of.

So are we still arguing about intersectional feminism? Yes. My chair is pulled up to thetable, I’m compassionately critical of my own ignorance, addressing my own healing,inspired by listening and cognizant not to speak too freely or out of turn. Which comeswith embarrassing missteps and constant reevaluation. But what may to some look like“a big argument” is a push toward shifts in ourselves and in our culture that allows forhealthier communities overall, where folks feel comfortable and safe to live in theirbodies.

If you’re in for that future, I’m with you.

Erin Brown

is an author, international speaker, and poet from Lawrence, Kansas. Her work focuses on women and autonomy. It includes themes of positive body image, eradicating rape culture, addressing white feminism, honoring the power of our voices, self-care over martyrdom, reproductive justice, intersectional thinking and inclusive leadership. With an activism history approaching two decades, the only thing she is sure of is how much more she has to learn.